Health and Wellbeing

With a growing interest in food as an important contributor to health and wellbeing, consumers want to know, not only what nutritional value a food contains, but also how it contributes to the maintenance of health. The oyster is truly a food offering the consumer positive health benefits.

Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea Gigas) are naturally one of the most nutritionally well balanced of foods. They are low in fat, calories and cholesterol in addition to being high in protein, iron, omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, zinc and vitamin C.

ProteinOur bodies need protein to build strong bones, muscles, skin, and cells. Because we can’t store Protein in our bodies the way we can store carbohydrates, we need to make sure we get enough Protein every day.

IronIron aids in transporting oxygen to the body’s cells. Iron is a facilitator for regulating body temperature and also plays a key role in providing strength to the immune system.

Calcium
Calcium is needed for strong bones, aids in blood clotting and activates enzymes to help with digestion.

What does Calcium do for the body, beyond building bones?
Calcium is actually responsible for a lot of things in your body. Proper amounts of calcium help keep your joints free of inflammation and arthritis, as well as help your muscles contract. Calcium also helps your brain communicate with your nerves, keeps your blood pressure normal and reduces the risk of colon cancer.

ZincThe majority of people get most of their Zinc from meat and poultry.
A serving of oysters contains more Zinc than any other food per serving (76.7mg in 6 medium oysters!). This is more than 100% of the suggested daily amount of 8-11mg. Zinc helps maintain a healthy immune system which is needed for fighting illness and healing wounds. It also helps maintain your sense of taste and smell. Because your body has no natural way to store zinc, it’s important to make sure you’re getting your daily dose.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects your body from free radicals, which may cause heart disease and cancer. It also helps your immune system and helps you heal from scrapes and bruises.

CholesterolAccording to a study at the University of Washington, shellfish poses no danger to cholesterol levels. This study found that some of the most commonly eaten shellfish, including oysters, showed evidence of raising HDLs (good cholesterol levels) and lowering LDL’s (bad cholesterol levels).